The Turner Center for the Arts hosts the fine arts collections of Natalie Andreeva, Inside Out: Celebrating Women in Art, and the RAC (Regional Artists Community) inaugural group exhibit, as well as the literary works of author Steve McCurdy, in a free Gallery Opening Reception on Monday, Nov. 4, from 5-7 p.m. The event takes place at the Turner Center galleries, located at 527 N. Patterson Street.

Andreeva, a full-time artist, emerged from the rich and fertile artistic climate of Novosibirsk, in Siberia after graduating from its most prestigious art college. During her classical education in the canons of European art she was greatly influenced by eastern philosophy. Consequentially, Natalia's work is a harmonious marriage between spontaneous expressions and classical realism. Among Natalia's favorite themes are exquisite landscapes, depicting the subtlety of nature, still life, where vibrant shapes and internal dynamics are shown in contrast to the commonplace subjects, and finally, figures and portraits brimming with humanity, and giving testament to the beauty and harmony of the human condition.

INSIDE OUT-Celebrating Women in ART features the individual voices of 34 women. Each has her own perspective and style and share a common starting point -- the process. Feelings and memories are expressed using mark, shape and color to reveal an inner narrative. The paintings are meant to be felt, rather than to depict or mean something concrete. Viewers are invited to interpret them through their own life filters, thus offering an opportunity for a uniquely personal and immersive experience.

The Turner Center is pleased to host the Regional Artists Community (RAC), a new artists group at the center dedicated to promoting local artists and providing opportunities to sell their works. RAC members are featured on the Turner Center website, display their works in the center’s gallery, participate in events such as the recent ARToberfest, and gather to discuss economic success within the industry, among other membership perks. The inaugural exhibit is located in Josette’s Gallery.

Most Turner Center gallery opening receptions also feature local authors and book-signing opportunities. The Nov. 4 reception is no exception and will feature the writings of Steve McCurdy. McCurdy has been a performer, speaker, writer, director and motion picture producer for over 45 years. In addition to “The Keeper at the Inn,” he has written dozens of musical reviews, hundreds of dramas for worship, and the historical novel “The Whiteman Scenario.” His award-winning original Christian musicals include “The Long Way Home” and “The CrossRoads Diner.” His 2006 award-winning movie, “I Flunked Sunday School,” was the first of his faith-based products to reach the market, and now he is delighted to share “Keeper” with children of all ages.

In addition, the East African Artifacts and the Fine European Porcelain collections—both permanent collections of the Turner Center—will be displayed in the Tillman and Howard Galleries respectively at the event.

“The Turner Center is proud to host and support the inspired works of these artists at the free Nov. 4 Gallery Opening Reception,” said Executive Director Sementha Mathews. “Free admission to the Turner Center is made possible by the continued generous support of local members and donors. We invite the public to experience the fine art displayed at this community event, while using the opportunity to also become more familiar with everything your arts center has to offer for patrons of all ages.”